Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

What is Project 543?

Project 543 tells the story of unique spots across North Carolina we hope will become some of your favorite places. Why 543? Because that’s the number of miles from Manteo, on the coast, to Murphy, in the mountains, and is traditionally considered to be the width of our state. The entries in this project are in no particular order, and we’ll add to them each week. Check in often to find inspiration for your next trip, or start planning today at VisitNC.com.

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Visit the birthplace of Pepsi-Cola

Most people know the city where Coke was invented, but many don’t know visitors can go to the actual place where Pepsi was born. The Birthplace of Pepsi, located in historic New Bern, features a soda fountain shop where visitors can taste a Pepsi and learn more about its inventor, Caleb Bradham, and the early days of one of the world’s favorite soft drinks. Pepsi is just one of many famous foods and drinks that call North Carolina home.